tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-348740452024-03-14T00:40:03.868-05:00Norvell, Party of FiveLydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.comBlogger394125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-37216505512759270972013-08-28T13:54:00.000-05:002014-03-12T13:55:40.572-05:00Hippotherapy for JamesContrary to popular belief, "hippotherapy" is therapy using horses, not hippos.<br />
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James LOVES horses, so I was excited to start hippotherapy at Hope Landing once he turned 3. It was even better that we got to start just a wee bit early. James was a little hesitant to get on the horse, but--with enough cheering--he made it on. His smile was so sweet as he took in the new experience.<br />
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His occupational therapist (Gena) works with him on posture and balance. He also uses signs and words to direct the horse. The horse handler is Kim, and she is pure cowgirl, and excellent with the kids.<br />
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I had arranged with Kim that if Caleb expressed an interest in riding, she would give him one riding lesson (and maybe more if the interest grew). However, as much as he cheered his bubba on, he hasn't really cared to get on a horse himself. Every boy is different! <br />
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If you want to see all the photos I took that day, you can check out the <a href="http://clients.lmnovations.com/Family/Hippotherapy-at-Hope-Landing/37651936_8SdT9j" target="_blank">full gallery</a>.Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-73540038019517561412013-08-27T22:22:00.000-05:002013-08-27T22:22:31.054-05:00Caleb Sings a SongThe unit we've been working on lately has been about leaves. In the beginning, we took a leaf off of a plant that we keep on our patio, and we have been watching that leaf in relation to the other leaves still on the plant. We have talked about how leaves work, and how plants in general are vital for our own living (converting carbon dioxide into oxygen). Besides the academics of leaves, we've been learning that "we live and grow in Jesus." Caleb has learned a really cute song that I promised him I would share with the world, so here it is. He's in his PJs, as most of our school is done before breakfast, and we had just finished examining our plant and our leaf (which has not fared very well by itself over the last week!).<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/L8pHDoBRfXc?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-63727605385021253512013-08-22T12:54:00.000-05:002014-03-12T12:55:40.895-05:00Cicada ExplorationHave you ever seen brown cicada shells attached to trees and fences? I was thinking the other night that even though we have tons of those in our yard (Caleb likes to collect them), and I've seen a few cicadas in my lifetime, I've never seen the actual live bug inside the shell (called a nymph). On a whim, I grabbed a flashlight and headed to our fence, where we find most of our shells. I hunted around in the dirt, and quickly found exactly what I was looking for! A nymph, covered in dirt, had pushed out of the ground and was jerkily heading toward the fence, seeking higher ground. He has to get his job done before morning, when the birds wake up hungry! I grabbed him and stuck him inside a bug jar with a stick, and the waiting and watching commenced. The "big event" happened about midnight that night. I tried to wake Caleb up to show him, but it was almost impossible. I'm glad we had already found a video on YouTube for Caleb to watch. The next morning, we dubbed him "Flyer of the West" and released him. It was a poignant moment. (ha!)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cracking open with the cicada bulging out.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He hung like this for a very long time.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completely out and wings expanded. Now just to let them dry.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All dry by morning!</td></tr>
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<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-68089817051142640432013-08-19T16:38:00.001-05:002013-08-27T22:22:42.423-05:00School DaysToday is the first day of school for lots of kids. My nephew, Ian, is probably coming home from his first day of Kindergarten as I write this, and I can't wait to hear how the day went! I know he's going to do great!<br />
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A couple of weeks ago, we started home schooling Caleb. It's sort of a trial year. He's too young to start Kindergarten in public school, but he's ready to learn, so we decided to try it. Home schooling appeals to us for many reasons for both our kids, but we will just see how this year goes! If we get bogged down and don't enjoy it, well then, off to Kinder he'll go next year. But, if he loves it and learns--and if I love it!--then we just might keep it up. We shall see, and I make no promises either way.<br />
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We have met a great group of home schoolers in the area. They meet weekly for group classes, and sporadically for field trips and other events. The ages range from Kinder to Senior year, and there are around 50 kids who participate.<br />
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The group classes do not start until September, but I decided to start Caleb's home classes early, since I would like to take off a few weeks when the baby is born.<br />
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The Saturday before we started school, a local restaurant had a Back to School Bash, complete with a bounce house, a fire truck for Caleb to explore (and honk the horn!), and face painting! He and I spent the day picking out a few final school supplies and going to the library for books. And don't forget a Sonic run during happy hour! All in all, it was a great day to celebrate starting school. I didn't get pics until we got home, but here he is with his dragon and his new dinosaur backpack.<br />
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I had fun getting everything organized for school. It's all neatly stacked inside a cabinet by our dining room table (aka: school room). Every day it's a simple task to take out what we need, and then put it back at the end of class time!<br />
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On Sunday night, I laid out everything we would need for Monday. Now that we've done this for two weeks, I have figured out just what to pull out when I need it, instead of getting it all out at first. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I realize the calendar says September...now. It occurred to me in the middle of the night that Sunday night, and I fixed it before school the next day.</td></tr>
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Jon and I also strung up a few streamers to the fan, blew up a couple of balloons, and wrapped Caleb's chair. It looks pretty unimpressive to me, but Caleb was ecstatic the next morning. I hope he's always so easy to please!<br />
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Caleb wanted to wear his crown to mark the occasion. (And you'll notice the corrected calendar.)<br />
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We are starting our third week of class today, and so far it has gone very well. On day 2, Caleb asked, "Do we really have to have school today??" I was a little surprised by that, but I suppose for a kid who hasn't had any daily requirements of him, doing something two days in a row (and longer), might seem a little tedious. But he's doing a good job, and has learned about the sun and the moon, counting, cutting, pasting, and handwriting.<br />
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Today, when I told Caleb we would be making a mobile today, he said, "But I don't want to make a mobile!" Without explaining what it was, I simply said, "You will love it. It's right up your alley."<br />
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After doing the work we do every day (marking the calendar, adding to our 100 Chart, and tracking our progress on making raisins), he said, "Is it time to go to my alley, yet?"<br />
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And sure enough, he loved making a mobile, and even added a few ideas of his own.<br />
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So far, I love the flexibility we have. I love that he is able to do most of his work before breakfast, then complete some worksheets while he is at Hope Landing with James. I love that. I love the hands-on and outdoor activities that are incorporated into the lessons. I don't love the negative attitude that Caleb sometimes has about it, even though once he gets started, he really enjoys it. Then again, I've mentioned before that "attitude" has been a problem with him lately, so it's not confined to school.<br />
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Anyway, our big FIRST of starting Kindergarten has come and gone without any more fanfare than a couple blown-up balloons taped to a chair. Because we're not fully decided, and Caleb could be doing Kindergarten in public school next year, and because I wasn't leaving Caleb at the door with a dozen other little boys and girls, it just hasn't been that different. But it's still a mile marker! And I am excited about it, and about watching Caleb learn and grow this year!Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-59026016683023869282013-08-17T17:19:00.000-05:002013-08-17T17:19:00.685-05:00Boy BuildersI love watching the boys build. Here is one of Caleb's many buildings:<br />
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Does anyone notice anything about it? As in...it's perfectly symmetrical?!<br />
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He does this with EVERY building he makes these days. Every color and block shape exactly mirrored. Have your kids gone through a symmetrical phase? Since he's our first, we really don't have anything but him to go by (which is why we think he's pretty awesome).<br />
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I've thought this boy had good sense of design...and symmetry is very good design. Maybe he'll be an architect. Or maybe he'll be an ice cream truck driver, which is his current idea. That and a pirate king.<br />
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James has finally gotten past the "knock it down" stage...at least long enough to build it first! If he's not building up, he's placing blocks in a long line like a train. I've recently found cars lined up, dinosaurs in a row, a magnet queue on the fridge...evidently both my boys love order!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's always a good time to say, "Cheese!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working hard</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surveying his work...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QBEnUKg3z8s/Ug6kcleyTKI/AAAAAAAAOg4/_kU8aUoQGBw/s1600/IMG_2446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QBEnUKg3z8s/Ug6kcleyTKI/AAAAAAAAOg4/_kU8aUoQGBw/s1600/IMG_2446.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CRASH! The best part is still knocking it down!</td></tr>
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<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-90875619117663845042013-08-16T09:36:00.000-05:002013-08-16T09:36:22.923-05:00Day at the ParkIt is mid-August, and our high temperature yesterday was in the 80s. If that's not a miracle, I don't know what is. It's warming up again today, but nothing like what it has been, so I am a happy girl! Suddenly my days of staying as still as possible, as close to a fan as possible, and using as little effort as possible have morphed into cooking (even baking!), cleaning (even windows!), and taking my boys to the park. I love fall. OKAY! Okay, I know it's not fall...but let me dream for a couple of days!<br />
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Anyway, yesterday was our day at the park. Here are some pictures.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James had a sty on his left eye. By the time it got better, he whacked his head on the floor and got a nice "third eye."</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3iUs0_Knbw/Ug40war4hgI/AAAAAAAAOc0/-8gUQaDWRts/s1600/IMG_9387.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3iUs0_Knbw/Ug40war4hgI/AAAAAAAAOc0/-8gUQaDWRts/s640/IMG_9387.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The globe is the Earth (obviously), and Caleb is standing by a baseball 30 feet away to get the idea of the relative size of the Earth and the Moon.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"This is Eagle. Come in, Space Command!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb's friend, Logan, showed up and made play time ten times more fun!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aby4aNLBnS8/Ug409Ywb9RI/AAAAAAAAOeA/TsL-tmZLDSE/s1600/IMG_9403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aby4aNLBnS8/Ug409Ywb9RI/AAAAAAAAOeA/TsL-tmZLDSE/s1600/IMG_9403.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logan's cousin, Mallory, playing with James.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OLVI9fRFCsY/Ug409j6K80I/AAAAAAAAOeE/EbbfkgCOmU4/s1600/IMG_9413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OLVI9fRFCsY/Ug409j6K80I/AAAAAAAAOeE/EbbfkgCOmU4/s640/IMG_9413.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Booger Boy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drink break!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb on the rope swing!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S08COpwBDYY/Ug41IUIPCvI/AAAAAAAAOfI/LSN5oem9wvw/s1600/IMG_9439.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S08COpwBDYY/Ug41IUIPCvI/AAAAAAAAOfI/LSN5oem9wvw/s640/IMG_9439.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He came over and situated himself at the table all by himself while I helped Caleb on the swing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monkey See, Monkey Do</td></tr>
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Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-50512002133302637092013-08-09T11:34:00.000-05:002014-03-12T12:19:26.733-05:00Hope Landing Talent Show 2013Every year, Hope Landing has a talent show to showcase all the wonderful things the kids can do. Last year, James rocked out to Great Balls of Fire. This year, he showed off his alphabet skills. I was so excited at how well he did. (Disclaimer: he doesn't enunciate very well, but *I* know he got the letters right!) And I loved that Caleb had a part, too. I was a little afraid he would have stage-fright, and I prepared the OT (Gena) to take his spot if needed, but he did great! He even stole the mic at the end to say "Hooray for James."<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/NwYMhbFtxjY" width="640"></iframe>
So proud of my boys and all that they accomplish. And so thankful for Hope Landing and the way they pursue the best for our kids.<br />
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Here are some other photos from that night....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvmdCReHb9U/UyCPDg00LHI/AAAAAAAAOnI/UmYBdpwww4g/s1600/IMG_2460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvmdCReHb9U/UyCPDg00LHI/AAAAAAAAOnI/UmYBdpwww4g/s1600/IMG_2460.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My two boys and their bow ties. Ready to go! (You can see poor James and his sty)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James with one of his Physical Therapists, Tricia.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blowing bubbles before the show</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Master of Ceremonies and Hope Landing CEO.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the stage.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dance break!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the talent of the night, taking a bow</td></tr>
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Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-63771329486262358412013-07-25T10:34:00.000-05:002014-03-12T10:35:35.211-05:00What We've Been Up To: Newbie3I am very far behind on the baby updates! My brain has been so scattered lately, it's been hard to sit for an extended period and put thoughts together.<br />
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I am at 20 weeks--halfway there!<br />
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My last appointment with Dr. W was a few weeks ago, and here are the stats from it:<br />
My bp: 120/68<br />
Weight gain since last visit: 3 lbs<br />
Baby's heart rate: 160<br />
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We discussed the Level 2 ultrasound I would be getting at 19 weeks, and she said we would not have the normal 20-week ultrasound in her office.<br />
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I asked about the pain in my tailbone, and she said it has to do with the position of the uterus, and the lax nature of the bony structure in my spine. Everything is stretching out for the baby!<br />
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That was pretty much the extent of the appointment. The fast heart rate started putting a little doubt in my "it has to be a boy" philosophy. Maybe...a girl?<br />
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Well, this past Thursday, we went to our Level 2 ultrasound. Of course, the main purpose was to find any medical problems that might indicate Down syndrome or other chromosomal syndromes. Within a couple of minutes, the sono tech said, "Well, I'm not looking at it closely, yet, but I can already tell you it's a boy!"<br />
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Haha! Another baby boy! What a blessing. Jon has his plate full in raising some good men! And my job isn't easy, either, trying to teach them how to treat ladies and look for godly women to be their helpmates in the future. What a responsibility, this parenting is!<br />
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But the more wonderful news of the ultrasound is that the doctor found no major health problems. All the "soft markers" that could indicate Down syndrome were non-existent, and all the major organs looked perfectly healthy. We were scheduled for a more detailed look at the baby's heart next week, because of James's medical history of a VSD, but the doctor said this baby had a "beautiful heart"--or maybe it was "beautiful ventrical septum,"--and there was no need for further study.<br />
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Prior to the ultrasound, we met with a "genetic counselor" whose main job was to explain what to expect in the ultrasound, and then to meet with us again afterward if any problems were found. He would explain the implications of what was found, the next steps or further testing recommended, and then also to handle the emotional stuff that could happen. We understand the possibility of what could happen, but God had taken care of us so far, and no reason to doubt that now, no matter what we found. Not that we would be bundles of smiles if we had found out some devastating news, but what a powerful peace we have knowing that God is in control--not my body, or the doctors, or anything else in all its imperfection. The perfect God is in control.<br />
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I have given up my pile of pillows that bolstered me up at night. They also kept me awake, and I fought with them any time I moved. So I'm going without, until I can't sleep without them.<br />
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Oh my goodness, I almost forgot! The name for little Newbie3!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Jackson Lee Norvell</i></span></span></div>
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We will call him Jack. <br />
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I'm not quite used to it, yet. I haven't said it enough times, I guess. But the boys can both say it, and that's good!<br />
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Jack is quite the mover and shaker! He was really wiggly during the ultrasound, and I feel him moving around all the time.Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-3516298352527199372013-07-23T09:51:00.002-05:002013-07-23T09:57:06.555-05:00What We've Been Up To: JamesJames. My James-Man. What a stinker little boy!<br />
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We are so proud of everything James has accomplished. At almost 3 years old, he is quite the walker! And into EVERYthing. He pulls interesting things out of the trash. He topples folded laundry, or brings it to me, wherever I am in the house. Any container is free game for his desire to "undo:" box of toys, blocks, books, etc. His latest past time is getting into his brother's sock drawer. I can't tell you how many times I've caught him with an armful of socks, making his way to the living room. He dutifully picks them up and puts them back where they belong (as he does with the laundry or other messes), and then smiles at his accomplishment. Stinker.<br />
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Potty training is slow-going. I can't believe the strides he's already made, though he certainly hasn't made it. He can keep a dry diaper for several hours, and will almost always go potty if I ask him to. He will rarely tell me if he needs to go potty, but he has even started doing that a little, and I think that is awesome! He had a few days of potty training boot camp with my mom, but it only showed us that he really was not ready, yet, for full-blown potty training. For now, though, I'm perfectly happy with the progress he's made. I really had not expected him to be this far along at his age.<br />
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Our latest surprise with James is finding out he knows his alphabet! As in, if I hold up a letter, he tells me what it is--almost every single time! Again, I attribute the iPad to his success. He spends lots of time flipping through alphabet flash cards. But it was very funny the first day we figured it out, and I cautiously asked his occupational therapist to confirm what I thought: That a boy who couldn't even identify his colors, yet, knew his letters. Sure enough, the OT called me into her session with James so I could see him confidently pulling the correct letters out of a choice of three...and occasionally picking one up from the pile and saying, "P" or "8" just to surprise everyone. (Yes, he knows his numbers, too, and surprised us awhile back with counting to ten...not perfectly, but at least understanding that some numbers follow others. His favorite is, "Eight...NINE!!")<br />
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James is a man's man. Where Caleb hugs all the ladies, and tells them they look beautiful, James holds up his arms to the men in our church, asking to be held. He loves his Daddy most of all!<br />
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Beyond the developmental things that James has accomplished, he is definitely headstrong. The battle ground is usually mealtimes, where he would much rather just drink his milk than eat his food, or he would rather I feed him than he feed himself. He very easily lets us know what he wants, when he wants it. Usually with pointing, grunts, signs, and words--he uses whatever it takes to let us know! Sometimes it's, "I will not eat until I am watching the Andy Griffith Show!" Sometimes it is, "Bubba is taking my blocks, and I am not happy about it!" And lots of times it is, "I need to watching Signing Time!!!"<br />
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He has really gotten into reading "big boy" books lately, looking intently at the more detailed pictures in them. And he's playing with blocks in a more intentional way--stacking instead of just throwing.<br />
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<br />He loves to dress up. We have a bin of hats and costumes, and he's constantly pulling on a hat and maybe some beads or something else he can put around his neck. <br />
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We enjoy watching him, and watching his mind and body grow and develop. Just like we sit back in wonder at Caleb, we watch and wonder at James. Usually a<span style="color: #0000ee;"> </span>pause, and then, "Gosh, he's a cute kid." We are so blessed by our little second-born!<br />
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Newbie3 is up next!<br />
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<i>*Note: The awesome shirts in this post were made by the super-talented Kim Davis. Visit her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/layniebugdesign?page=2" target="_blank">etsy site</a> for your own custom-painted shirts!</i>Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-51539672782376534322013-07-20T17:55:00.000-05:002013-07-23T09:56:23.357-05:00What We've Been Up To: CalebMy boys are gone for the week. The whole week! I keep telling people this is the first vacation I've had as a stay-at-homer. The first time I've been at home while my children are gone. No youth camps, mission trips, or anything. Just home! It's lovely.<br />
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It's also a little lonely! I gotta admit I just started thinking about Caleb's little quirks, and how I miss them. Mind you, it's been a little over 48 hours. Hard stuff for a mama. :)<br />
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So, you're in luck! I think I'll just write about my boys, and maybe I won't miss them so much. And you get to know what's going on in their worlds these days. Keep in mind that I miss them, so forgive any overly sappiness or glossing over the little heathen traits they have. :)<br />
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My firstborn.<br />
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Caleb.<br />
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Gosh, I love this kid. He is just like me! He drives me crazy with his stop-and-smell-the-roses mentality, but I really love it. He and I compete for slowest eater, most likely to cause everyone to run late, and other exciting contests. Now that I think of it, together we probably drive Jon bananas.<br />
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It's been no secret that we think Caleb is exceptional (we are his parents, after all). I've been working on a preschool curriculum with him, and when I say something like, "Today we get to learn a new letter: P!" he'll say, "Oh, yeah, Mama, I know what that one looks like." And he'll swoosh his finger in the air in the shape of a P.<br />
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"Okay," I say, "maybe we'll learn about Q today then."<br />
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"Yeah, it looks like this!" And he correctly puts a little tail on the circle he drew in the air. Then he tells me what sound it makes, and several words that start with Q.<br />
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I attribute most of his genius to the iPad.<br />
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His recent kick is science. As a science-lover myself, I love this! These days, his block creations are less often castles, and more often science labs...usually complete with a mad scientist. He includes secret doors and traps of all kinds.<br />
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We have started a bug collection! I am not timid about bugs, but I will say I was a little nervous pulling them out of the freezer. Were they really dead...or just really cold? None of them have wandered off, yet, so the collecting continues.<br />
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For his birthday, Caleb wants a science party. I'm not sure exactly what he expects from this science party, but it's a GREAT theme, and I can't wait to get planning for it!<br />
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One day, as we drove in the car, Caleb asked, "Mom, do you actually <i>know</i> any scientists, and can I go see their lab someday?" I had to admit to myself that I did not know any scientists! But a plea on Facebook found a friend of mine who is now teaching 8th grade science, and she has agreed to show Caleb some fun bubbly things on Skype once it gets a little closer to school. I thought that was super-sweet. It's fun to be able to run with my kids' current interests.<br />
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In June, we had several camps and VBS at our church. The kids that came forward to commit their lives to Jesus and be baptized sparked quite a few conversations with Caleb. He would tug on my dress and tell me he wanted to be baptized. After discussing it quite a bit with him, and Jon and I together, we are grateful for the sensitive spirit that he has, but he doesn't yet understand what becoming a believer truly is. On one hand, does ANYone ever fully understand that? But on the other, he is very young, and we want him to be very sure.<br />
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In the meantime, I enjoy the sincerity of his prayers. For a long time, his prayer consisted of, "Thank you, God, for a great day, and for helping Mommy and Daddy feel better." Every. Day. It didn't matter if we had been sick or not! We finally asked him to start thinking of one thing to thank God for, and one thing to ask God for. Now I'm amazed by the prayers that come out of this little boy's mouth. Some things he says are things he hears us pray, while others are from songs, or things he simply says on his own. Some of the sweet prayers I can remember at the moment:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Thank you, God, for making things good. You took bad and made it good. You took sin and made it not sin. (This was in response to a discussion about how bad things in life--animals and bugs, specifically--would not be bad one day. The lion laying with the lamb.)<br />
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Jesus, we don't deserve you. But we need you.<br />
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Dear God, help Great Grandpa. His batteries went out, and he needs new ones.<br />
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Thank you, God, for a great day. You are wonderful. You are ... (well, I can't remember the word, but it was a big one, and most likely from some song on the radio! Magnificent, maybe?).</blockquote>
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Caleb is very excited about the new baby. Last time around, he really had no idea what was going on. This time, if I tell him, "I'm sorry, I can't share these raisins; I really need to eat them," he'll say, "Is the baby hungry?"<br />
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And a few times lately he has hugged my belly, or zerbered my belly, or spoken to my belly in a silly voice--all for the baby.<br />
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I love how tender Caleb is. He is sweet and kind. He is certainly not perfect. We have had to deal with a quite a bit of attitude lately (which, sadly, he has picked up from us!). But in general, Jon and I marvel that we have been blessed with such a neat kid.<br />
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James is up next!<br />
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Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-3204474818404222013-06-06T20:36:00.000-05:002013-06-06T20:36:12.297-05:00Conversations with CalebJon is reading jokes aloud for Caleb. He comes to a knock-knock joke.<br />
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Jon: Knock knock.<br />
<br />Caleb: Wait! I know how to do this. I'll teach you the rules.<br />
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Jon: Okay....<br />
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Caleb: First, I say, "Knock knock." Then you say, "Who's there?" Then I say a silly word, like "Blah be boo." Then you say, "Blah be boo, who?" and I say another silly word!<br />
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Okay, so Knock Knock!<br />
<br />Jon: Who's there?<br />
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Caleb: Nutty vue.<br />
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Jon: Nutty vue, who?<br />
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Caleb: Tot!!<br />
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---<br />
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I gotta admit, I laughed. I wasn't expecting "Tot!" Haha! That's a pretty funny joke, right there.<br />
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Tot!! Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-73314186987194657872013-05-30T15:12:00.000-05:002013-05-30T15:12:01.105-05:00Backyard FunI am so happy with our back yard these days. We've gotten such good rain this spring, and our yard is so green and pretty! It makes me smile to go out there.<br />
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We're attempting a square foot garden again. Last year was not very successful, I think because we put it in too late. This year, we got it together nice and early, and so far it seems to be going well.<br />
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A square foot garden is so different from a normal "row" garden. You have to think about it differently. For example, the second picture shows two empty spots. That is where a crop (cilantro) has already finished, and I have taken it out and put in a summer crop (green beans, and some more cilantro). You treat each square as its own plot, and theoretically, you can have an ever-changing garden. However, I think that once the summer heat fully hits us, I won't be able to grow anything else from seed. Only what is already established at that point will have a chance for survival. Hopefully that will be the beans, squash, tomatoes, and cantaloupe!<br />
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As I was taking these pictures, I heard a sweet, "Cheeeeeese!" coming from being me. I turn around to find my James-man, Climber Boy.<br />
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Isn't he handsome? This spring he has shown that he's finally big enough to be left alone a little. He's not constantly eating leaves or finding dirt piles. Well, he still finds dirt. He's a boy. But he's happy to roam around and explore.<br />
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And Caleb is forever imagining. Whether it's tiny cups full of dirt--ahem, I mean birthday cake--or blocks building a science lab (his new interest), he spends much of his time talking quietly to himself, playing the part of the chef or the mad scientist, respectively. <br />
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My little plum tree has finally come into his own this year. I count ten plums about the size of grapes. I just hope a worm doesn't find them before they grow and ripen! The petunias surrounding the tree are in two separate pots, left over from a wedding. I don't normally keep flowering plants, because they seem like a lot of trouble, and then they die. But, free is free, and these petunias have been the best I've ever had! Perhaps because I've actually taken care of them. Hm.... I love the splash of purple in my yard!<br />
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And roses. I love roses! I don't know why, particularly, but I do know that I have horrible luck with them. I have killed seven rose bushes since we've moved here, I'm pretty sure. So, I made a vow to never buy another rose. Too much wasted money. Then, I happened upon some clippings of a nice big rose bush out at Hope Landing (where James receives therapy), so I brought them home and stuck them in some water. They stayed there for a long summer, at least, and then I potted them. They were in pots for another long while, and finally, for Mother's Day, Jon planted them all for me! I love it!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(This is actually one I bought that has survived.)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The red ones are the ones I rooted.</td></tr>
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At the same wedding as the petunias, there were great big flower arrangements using curly willow. The willow was already starting to root only a few days after the wedding! Feeling quite confident from my success with the roses, I stuck these in water, too. They put out roots very well, and Jon planted these for me for Mother's Day as well. They should grow the size of a crepe myrtle. NOT the crepe myrtle that is looking miniscule behind the newly planted trees. That little guy moved from Fort Worth with us, and I think he spent too much time in a pot. He will probably never grow, despite the fact that he's at least 5 years old, probably older. But I still love him.<br />
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So, here's the view from the far end of the yard. My tree, my purple flowers, my boys, my garden. My home. I love it.<br />
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Some silly pictures of the boys. <br />
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To top off all that Jon did for me for Mother's Day, he also put these lovely stepping stones from the gate to our patio, and from the patio to our storage building. He did such a good job, and it really helps our yard feel more finished.<br />
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My boys, enjoying the back porch. <br />
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<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-22116086676420734522013-05-28T17:59:00.000-05:002013-05-28T17:59:00.386-05:00Conversations with CalebLast summer, our yard and our neighbor's yard was infested with fleas. It was horrible. The neighbors had a decrepit old dog named Chip, and he was utterly miserable with the fleas.<br />
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He might have also been the cause.<br />
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By the end of the summer, the fleas were gone, and so was Chip. He had been put to sleep, whether because he was actually sick and dying, or because he was prolonging the battle with the fleas, I'm honestly not sure.<br />
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Chip was a constant in our backyard play. Caleb always said hi to him. He always peed in our general direction when we came out to play. When he didn't show up, I think Caleb assumed Chip was just sleeping in his dog house. Time went by, and Caleb never questioned where Chip was. Finally, he did, and I simply said something like, "He's not there any more." Caleb still talked about him as if he was still very much alive, and just always in his dog house.<br />
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Two days ago, our neighbor happened to come out into the back yard. In true Caleb fashion, Caleb ran to the fence and said:<br />
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"Excuse me! Do you have a dog named Chip?"<br />
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"I did, but he died." And with that, the neighbor went inside.<br />
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For months, I've been protecting this little secret that I knew would break Caleb's heart. And now, there it was. Boom.<br />
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Caleb turned to me, his face fallen, his lower lip starting to poke its way out. He slowly walked over and told me what the neighbor had said. Then he asked, "What about the other [indoor] dogs? Will they die, too? I think they will, and then we won't have ANY dogs!"<br />
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His lip started to quiver.<br />
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"I think I need to pray to God."<br />
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Then, out came a heartfelt prayer that can only come from a child: "Dear God, Chip died. And he is my favorite dog...and Freddy.* Can you please bring him back from Heaven? Amen."<br />
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It was sweet. And a good lesson. How many times do I immediately run to God when something bad happens? And how often have I asked God to perform a miracle? Truly the faith of a child!<br />
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I explained to Caleb that Chip was happy in Heaven, and that he would want to stay there.<br />
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And that was that! A moment later, Caleb was on to something else. Occasionally, when we're outside playing, he will sigh and say, "I miss Chip." But, to be fair, he also says that of the veterinarian receptionist who left for another job a year ago. He lives for the dramatic. <br />
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*Freddy is Caleb's stuffed dog that he sleeps with. I suppose he didn't want Freddy to feel slighted by what he said about Chip being his favorite.Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-49183048671961933112013-05-26T14:29:00.000-05:002013-05-26T14:30:08.272-05:0012 WeeksTwelve weeks tomorrow!<br />
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Before I start with my normal post, I have put up some other posts that I wrote a few weeks back. You can find them here:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2013/04/party-of-five.html" target="_blank">Party of Five?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2013/05/9-weeks.html" target="_blank">9 Weeks</a> </li>
</ul>
You might want to read those first. Totally up to you. Now back to our regularly scheduled blog post....<br />
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The biggest news is that I've had my first OB appointment. Here's the rundown:<br />
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I have, indeed, <b>gained 6 pounds</b>. Dr. W said that it didn't worry her at all, and actually made her feel that I was getting enough nutrition, so she was happy with it. (This, I think, was in response to my telling her that I maintained a mostly vegan diet at home.)<br />
My <b>blood pressure</b> was 98/68.<br />
The baby's <b>heart rate</b> was 170. Dr. W said, "Nice and fast! You know what they say about a fast heart rate.... You've got a 50/50 chance of it being a girl!" As a side note, I <i>love</i> hearing the baby's heart beating. You just can't get the smile off my face when I hear that strong swoosh, swoosh. Love it.<br />
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Questions I had for the doctor:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>I have had my vision go funny when I've gone long periods without eating. Is that low blood sugar?</b> Yes, it is. Because I have not had the constant gagging feeling that I had in the first two pregnancies, I have not been eating as often. Dr. W said to make sure I ate every 2-3 hours. </li>
<li><b>Can I get a prescription for a breast pump before birth?</b> Yes. Did you know that insurance companies now cover pumps for nursing moms? It's evidently a part of the new healthcare system. Anyway, a couple weeks before James was born, I started pumping minimally, as recommended by the doctor, to help with natural induction of labor. After he was born, I pumped almost exclusively for four months, and my pump took quite a beating. (Hey, it's hard to wrangle a baby, a 1-year-old, and curious pets without knocking that darn machine over every once in awhile.) By the end, it was not working properly. I haven't taken it back out of storage, but it's good to know that a pump is covered if I need a new one. Those things are not cheap.</li>
<li><b>When do you do an ultrasound?</b> 20 weeks for gender determination and health check.</li>
<li><b>Are we taking any precautions because of my previous experience with chromosomal abnormalities? (James, obviously, has a chromosomal abnormality. Plus, very early miscarriages are usually due to chromosomal abnormalities, which means I have two counts against me on that.)</b> Yes, we are. </li>
<ul>
<li>Dr. W discussed prenatal testing with me. The different tests can tell us if the baby has a likelihood of having certain things (Ds being one of them), but they don't tell us any of the health issues the baby might have. So, if we had done prenatal testing with James, we would have known he would probably have Ds, but we would not have known he had a <a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2010/12/surgery-for-my-baby-boy.html" target="_blank">heart defect</a>. The test would have meant I would have had a more indepth ultrasound to see about the health issue. So, to us, the prenatal tests are not necessary. They don't change anything. </li>
<li>What I really want to know is: Are there any <i>health</i> issues with my baby? You can imagine I want to look over every bit of his heart, his intestines, his everything. Well, because of my history, I can get exactly what I want. The doctor wants me to have a Level 2 Ultrasound at a hospital in Little Rock. I get to skip right over the prenatal testing part! </li>
<ul>
<li>It will happen when I'm at 18 weeks, so sometime in July. </li>
<li>It should show things as detailed as the red and blue streaks showing blood flow in and out of the baby's heart (I am familiar with that from all of James's echocardiograms), as well as things like spina bifida or other issues. </li>
</ul>
<li>Jon is not particularly excited about this Level 2 ultrasound. To him, getting more information just confirms that there is a higher likelihood of something being wrong. And he's right. There is. But from my point of view, the more I know, the better. If we find something like spina bifida, that can be fixed in utero! And if we find something like a heart defect, we can make sure to be in the right place at the baby's birth, so the right team of people can take care of him. Plus, the "science-y" side of me kind of loves the fact that I get to see all this cool stuff about my baby.</li>
<li>Of course, at this moment, we are assuming that our baby is happy and healthy inside me. But we do have to accept that my chances of an unhealthy baby are higher. And for that, I'm glad there are things like Level 2 ultrasounds to give us good information.</li>
</ul>
</ul>
Whew, that was a lot of bullet points. It was a very informative visit. The only other addition was that she suggested I add a 500mg calcium vitamin every day, since I ate mostly vegan at home. I don't think I emphasized enough how much cheese sneaks its way into my "vegan" cooking.... But I have complied.<br />
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If you've made it this far into the post, you definitely deserve a photo! My blog has been lacking in photos lately! Here is a picture of me today, wearing my first maternity dress to church this morning.<br />
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Kind of reminds me of <a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2008/06/baby-belly-blues.html" target="_blank">this post</a>, where I was almost 16 weeks along with Caleb. Newbie3 is definitely making his appearance early!<br />
<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-89059720359614175742013-05-21T16:44:00.001-05:002013-05-21T16:44:22.838-05:00Newbie3 Coming!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am 11 weeks along! The due date is December 9, but neither of my boys hit anywhere near their due date, so I'm thinking sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas and leaving it at that. The video was taken when I was about 9 weeks along.<br />
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I go to my first appointment this Thursday. Any other tidbits I might want to share, I think I've put in posts that I've been writing along the way, and not posting yet. I'll post them up soon!Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-66829239422507036132013-05-08T13:33:00.000-05:002013-05-26T13:38:01.677-05:009 WeeksHere we are at nine weeks. They say every pregnancy is different, and I have found that to be true. Well, mostly true.<br />
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Similar to 1 and 2, I have not had any morning sickness. The previous pregnancies, I have had a constant feeling of "gagginess" that required me to snack all day long. I can't really describe how I feel this time around. The gag feeling comes and goes. For example, when I started cooking dinner tonight, it made me feel gross just to smell it. This happened to me last week, as well. That time, I only picked at my dinner, but was able to eat it the next day with no problems. I am rarely hungry and get full faster than normal...and yet, I have had more snacks throughout the day. That might account for the (ahem) six pounds of weight gain...hm....<br />
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And completely UNRELATED, there is no hope of me fitting into my normal clothes. I had stashed away a couple of pairs of jeans that were a size or two larger, and those are serving me for now. But, it turns out that one of those jeans has paint on it (funny how you forget those things when it's stored away for two years), so I ended up pulling out a couple of honest-to-goodness maternity pants to make up for it. So there you go. Nine weeks in, and I've already made the plunge into maternity-wear.<br />
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Let's see, with Caleb, I made it to <a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2008/06/16-weeks.html" target="_blank">16 weeks</a> before switching. And with James, I made it <a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2010/04/195-weeks.html" target="_blank">19.5 weeks</a>! What does that say about this baby?? Granted, I haven't fully delved into it, but I'm pretty sure once everyone knows I'm pregnant, I'll be pulling out the ol' panel-topped shorts and the empire waist shirts.<br />
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As far as other pregnancy symptoms, the huge one for me this time around is FATIGUE. I remember being tired--as in, hit-by-a-Mack-truck tired--but I am TIRED. By the time the boys are in bed, it's all I can do to get myself to bed. Forget dishes, work, laundry, or even just hanging out with my hubby. Tired. I'm ready for this to go away. <br />
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Tomorrow we go for another sonogram with our favorite sonographer, Kathy. We are going to take Caleb and James with us, and that is when we will tell them. I'm super-excited about Caleb knowing. I wonder if he will laugh or cry...or if he'll understand at all when he sees the sonogram?<br />
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And of course, once Caleb knows, everyone will know! I hope that he will be excited to tell everyone, so we can tell brothers and grandparents. My Mawmaw got it out of me today, but everyone else will find out tomorrow, probably through a few Skype/Facetime dates.<br />
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That's it for now!Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-63211894351776291912013-04-30T13:29:00.000-05:002013-05-26T13:32:52.673-05:00Party of Five?It's been no secret that Jon and I wanted a third kiddo. When Caleb was at the stage where he started showing signs of being a toddler, and less a baby, we just knew. It was time for another one. This time around, we enjoyed James's slower development very much, appreciating the dependence he still had on us, while we continued to push him toward toddler-hood. My desire for another baby was pushed back a little because of the daunting thought of taking care of a newborn...and carrying a 3-year-old! And diapering them both, and nursing one and spoon-feeding the other. Etc, etc.<br />
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However, two things have happened. One, James has started to grasp at those bits of independence. The possibility of walking, being potty-trained, and self-feeding are all within reach. And two, I realized that moms have twins all the time, where they have to deal with two. And moms of kids with special needs have other children, and they all make it. So even if James doesn't check those marks of independence off his list by the time Newbie3 arrives, it might be a little more hassle, but so what.<br />
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So, we had only one other little technicality to deal with: insurance. We switched health insurance about a year ago, and were told they would not cover maternity for 12 months. Duly noted. So we waited.<br />
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Then in February we <a href="http://norvellnewbie.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-reminder-that-i-am-not-in-control.html" target="_blank">miscarried</a>, and so we had to wait a little more. We found out in April that we were expecting again.<br />
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A third is a little surreal. It doesn't seem nearly as life-changing, honestly. The first was a humdinger. The second was an adjustment. But three? It can't be that much different, right? We already have the van, the bassinet, the crib and the toddler bed. We've been changing diapers for four years, making bottles, cleaning sippies, dealing with child goo on the shoulders of every nice shirt we own. We understand the pause that a newborn requires, the ability to go out (and survive) in public with multiple kids, and that family is pretty much the most important thing next to God. So in many ways, the news of a third doesn't seem that big.<br />
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Then again....<br />
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THREE. I mean, you can't even fit in an average sedan with three kids plus carseats and boosters! And that just reminds me of all the JUNK that kids require. Our van is stuffed when we visit family for Christmas. I can't imagine adding another kid and his stuff, too! And three kids is pretty daunting for hosting, too! I doubt we'll be getting many more dinner invites!<br />
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Then again...<br />
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THREE. How cool is that?? Caleb will be so excited to find out another baby is coming, and I know he'll hope it's a sister. James LOVES babies, so while he may not understand for awhile exactly what's going on, when that baby comes home, he'll be head over heels. I have loved watching Caleb step into the role of big brother, teaching and cheering James on, comforting him, correcting him, bossing him, loving him. And I can't wait to see how James becomes a big brother himself.<br />
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Notes on the pregnancy:<br />
As of today (4/30), I am 8 weeks and one day. We found out right about four weeks.<br />
We told our parents last week, but no one else so far!<br />
We want to tell the boys next, but know that telling Caleb will essentially be telling the world. :)<br />
I have gotten one ultrasound at 6 weeks from our friend at the pregnancy center here in town. I do not go to my OB until I am 12 weeks.Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-88407482705471934332013-04-30T10:18:00.000-05:002013-04-30T10:18:40.437-05:00A little slice of lifeLast night I had a nice post in mind, about how satisfied I felt about life. I think I should have written it, so I could remind myself this morning!<br />
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Isn't it sad how quickly our mindsets change? Let me try to recreate last night....<br />
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Caleb got to go to the high school softball game with Jon. Caleb is now old enough to play on the playground with his friends, while Jon watches the game (and keeps an eye on Caleb from a distance). We definitely love our small town, and the fact that if other people are at the park, they are likely church members who we trust to keep an eye on our boy for us. <br />
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While the "big boys" were at the game, I was getting dinner ready. I was very tired yesterday, and didn't really relish the idea of making the energy-intensive meal I'd planned for the night...but I did it, anyway. It was really yummy, and I got to use these things from our garden: broccoli, lettuce, and basil. That made me VERY happy. I really hope our garden continues to do well this summer.<br />
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When the boys came back, Caleb and James went outside to play while I finished up the last bits of dinner. James isn't old enough to go out by himself, yet, but Caleb is an excellent tattle-tale, and I can trust I will know if James is doing something he's not supposed to!<br />
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As a side note, Caleb is now covered in mosquito bites, while James doesn't seem to be. Which mirrors exactly their mom and dad. I am covered in bites, while Jon--if he is--doesn't seem bothered by them.<br />
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It was finally dinner time, which consisted of the usual up-and-down routine for me. James has improved tremendously when it comes to eating, but it's still a battle! Dinner ended with James signing "potty," Jon carrying him off to the bathroom, and Caleb asking to be excused. I was left by myself to finish my dinner. That's what happens when I'm the slowest eater in the family!<br />
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As another side note, James immediately went to the bathroom once he was on the potty. Sometimes I get really excited that he is "getting it," but other days we just have lots of wet diapers. I have in my mind that eventually we'll just have dry diapers all day long, going potty every couple of hours, and I'll just starting putting him in undies. Wouldn't that be a lovely transition! Can you tell I'm not relishing the idea of a potty training boot camp?<br />
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We ended the day with prayers. James went on to bed after that, and Caleb stayed up for story time. We are reading The Hobbit now. It's been so long since I've read it, that I have no idea what is coming up next! Jon has read The Hobbit once a year for most of his life, I think, so he can explain the map, and how it all comes back into the Lord of the Rings. Must be handy having such a memory!<br />
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I love my boys. I'm sorry I have not updated about them much lately! They are both growing and learning. Caleb is starting to spell! He can sound out simple words surprisingly well! And James is getting more comfortable with walking. It's still not his primary mode of locomotion, but it's getting there!Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-42597362518113700382013-02-23T21:52:00.000-06:002013-02-23T21:53:11.857-06:00Be careful, little ears...I have been struck by how much Caleb hears. He may not understand it all, but he listens and remembers. Of course, there are the things he repeats that I wish he had not heard...or maybe that I wish I had not said. But it is so cool to hear truth come from such young lips!<br />
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Here is Caleb singing his Awana Cubbies theme song.<br />
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Caleb prays the same prayer every time he prays: Thank you, God, for a great day, and for helping Mommy and Daddy feel better.<br />
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Recently, we asked him to pray something different. After all, Mommy and Daddy were not sick any more. And he said, "I'm praying that you'll feel better from your sin!"<br />
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Huh. Oh. Well, keep praying for that, then!<br />
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He has branched out to pray other things. Sometimes it's funny, often sweet. And every once in awhile, a reminder of how much he listens. A few nights ago, it was, "Thank you, God, for a great day, and for helping Mommy and Daddy feel better. And please, God, we don't deserve you, but we need you."<br />
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In church on Sundays, he often answers the pastor's rhetorical questions.<br />
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Bro. Doug: "Do we follow others, or do we follow Christ?" (pause for dramatic effect)<br />
Caleb, from the pew: "CHRIST!"<br />
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And now that we've been doing Cubbies for a semester, he's got quite a few verses tucked into his brain...or at least snippets of each one. His favorite seems to be, "Jesus is the resurrection and the life." But it's just as easy to recall, "All have sinned" or "God loved us and sent His Son" when we're trying to explain things.<br />
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I don't say all these things to say what a spiritual child we have; he's a "pleaser" and would probably remember whatever he thought was important to us. He's too young to understand much of what he says. However, it is such a reminder for me, as a parent, that it is never too early to start talking about the truth of Christ! It's good for him, and it's good for us, too!Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-9880081295417868812013-02-17T23:17:00.000-06:002013-02-17T23:17:00.555-06:00A Reminder That I Am Not In ControlI'm not sure how to start this off. It's not fun or light-hearted. But I have two reasons for sharing. One, because it's <i>not</i> fun or light-hearted. I never want to give the impression that our lives are peachy, and that our faith in God is only because everything goes so well all the time. And two, because I need people to know. I don't want a lot of sympathy notes or casseroles. I just want people to know.<br />
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Two weeks ago I had a miscarriage.<br />
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I was about five weeks along, which means we'd known about a week. I already had my announcement blog written, as well as a list of things to add to my Amazon wish list once it was "official."<br />
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Last time we announced to family, we'd only found out that very morning. This time, since Caleb is older and more aware of things, we'd decided to wait to tell family members until our first doctor visit at 8 weeks or so.<br />
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The pregnancy started out differently from the other two, with spotting. I'd read that could be normal, and a phonecall to the doctor confirmed that. The spotting stopped, but resumed a few days later, this time more like real bleeding. Of course, it was a Friday afternoon, so I worried and Googled all weekend. We also called our parents to let them know what was going on, so they could join us in praying. By Monday, I was sure that I was miscarrying, and that was that.<br />
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However, at Monday's appointment, my doctor suggested that I might have sub-chorionic bleeding. That can be problematic in and of itself, but it meant that what I was experiencing could right itself, unlike a miscarriage. I regained hope that the pregnancy would make it.<br />
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On Monday, and again on Wednesday, I gave blood to test for HCG levels (pregnancy hormone). By Thursday, my bleeding had mostly stopped, and without any of the cramping or huge clots I had read would occur in a miscarriage. I told myself that the doctor had been right about the sub-chorionic bleeding, and that it was already healing, but an afternoon phonecall relaying my abysmal (and falling) HCG levels confirmed my fears.<br />
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Miscarriage.<br />
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The nurse said that what was done, was done. I was no longer pregnant, and thankfully there would be no need for further procedures or tests. As a matter of fact, had this happened 30 years ago, I would have assumed my cycle was weird for the month, and never suspected pregnancy.<br />
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When we heard the news, I really didn't feel anything. I didn't cry. I was grateful to know, one way or the other. The chipper little BabyCenter 6-week email didn't bother me; I just logged into my account to delete my third child I'd set up on their site. Just like that.<br />
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I wondered if I was just pushing down the grief--that maybe it would surface one day, and I'd be a ball of tears. So far (so far...) this hasn't happened. I've known many of my friends who have miscarried--some very recently. That, combined with the almost constant spotting/bleeding during the pregnancy, somehow protected my heart from being too certain that this baby was going to make it. And you know, God IS in control. I trust that with all my heart, and I trust that He has a good plan for me, and for my family. He has shown that to be true over and over again in my life, and I don't doubt Him on this one.<br />
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It's a good reminder that I am not in control: I cannot <i>will</i> things to happen in my life that I wish would happen.<br />
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It's also a good reminder of what's important. So many times when we were going through that week of uncertainty, as I listened to a minor complaint (that seemed major to the person complaining), I wanted to say, "Don't you realize how trivial that is? Do you realize I am losing my child inside of me, <i>right now</i>, and I can't do anything about it?" <br />
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And I guess that comes back to why I feel the need to
write this post, instead of just letting things be. It just
seems--though it was only a few moments in my life--that it's something I
will always think of. Though it played itself out so quietly and quickly, it was significant.Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-9177765924988347752013-02-14T23:01:00.000-06:002013-02-14T23:01:54.311-06:00Valentine's DayThis year was our first time ever to be a part of a Valentine's Day party. We have recently been a part of a playgroup, and it has been so much fun. That playgroup got together for a Valentine's pizza party, and almost everyone was able to attend...which added up to 20 kids or more! It was a bit chaotic, but the boys had a great time. I think the best part was the anticipation of it.<br />
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We were only supposed to wrap the Valentine's box, and then decorate it at the party, but Caleb was very anxious to use the stickers we bought for decorating.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb's car is #1, the biggest and fastest!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Switching gears...to sock monkeys!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipo0-F11X0M/UR28xNnMimI/AAAAAAAAOPc/faLCHZLoqiE/s1600/IMG_9162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipo0-F11X0M/UR28xNnMimI/AAAAAAAAOPc/faLCHZLoqiE/s640/IMG_9162.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking his time to find just the right sticker.</td></tr>
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We also attempted a homemade Valentine, which I confess it did not even occur to me that boxed Valentines even existed until we'd gotten all the supplies for this fun craft. I also gotta tell you, I loved it! Sometimes (a lot of times) I convince myself that my life just has too much in it to take time for creativity, and I forget that creativity often makes me a better, happier person! I was quite happy cutting and pasting on Tuesday night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OG5Z91hoL6o/UR28yTu-fhI/AAAAAAAAOPk/rtzLy1K5nT8/s1600/IMG_9163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OG5Z91hoL6o/UR28yTu-fhI/AAAAAAAAOPk/rtzLy1K5nT8/s640/IMG_9163.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Following the template from the Family Fun magazine.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7T7o8xci2Bg/UR28z5Qkg3I/AAAAAAAAOPs/yPH2hqgbEt0/s1600/IMG_9167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7T7o8xci2Bg/UR28z5Qkg3I/AAAAAAAAOPs/yPH2hqgbEt0/s640/IMG_9167.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep, it was a mess!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7R0QIiktmBQ/UR280gxIhcI/AAAAAAAAOP0/0VQ-_jdTo-8/s1600/IMG_9168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7R0QIiktmBQ/UR280gxIhcI/AAAAAAAAOP0/0VQ-_jdTo-8/s640/IMG_9168.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The clothes pins are holding everything in place while it all dries.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zIFoPlPs5Z8/UR2824Iq1eI/AAAAAAAAOP8/dYX9gqfbjd0/s1600/IMG_9175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zIFoPlPs5Z8/UR2824Iq1eI/AAAAAAAAOP8/dYX9gqfbjd0/s640/IMG_9175.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All done and stacked into a box, ready to distribute. I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see it so neatly packed in! Seriously.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PEzL_LcdH2M/UR286JKTP8I/AAAAAAAAOQM/OiNWtwmrHm0/s1600/IMG_9176.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PEzL_LcdH2M/UR286JKTP8I/AAAAAAAAOQM/OiNWtwmrHm0/s640/IMG_9176.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"You're fan-tastic! Love, Caleb & James"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9B6YQHLu2Ok/UR283L5xdhI/AAAAAAAAOQE/BLG1atP5Ljw/s1600/IMG_9174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9B6YQHLu2Ok/UR283L5xdhI/AAAAAAAAOQE/BLG1atP5Ljw/s640/IMG_9174.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tada! It opens up to a heart fan! The kids thought it was so fun at the party!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WDmcS73Vo0E/UR286ZAOQUI/AAAAAAAAOQU/DPdePzNoHjg/s1600/IMG_9179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WDmcS73Vo0E/UR286ZAOQUI/AAAAAAAAOQU/DPdePzNoHjg/s640/IMG_9179.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My two boys, at Hope Landing on the morning of the party.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Unp--j5I344/UR287yuwECI/AAAAAAAAOQk/ZSLnAV5YQj8/s1600/IMG_9184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Unp--j5I344/UR287yuwECI/AAAAAAAAOQk/ZSLnAV5YQj8/s640/IMG_9184.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the pizza place for lunch. Someone's excited about all the goings-on!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OuQG7X-6iNc/UR288HAZnrI/AAAAAAAAOQo/EFWsLJ5fbVM/s1600/IMG_9185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OuQG7X-6iNc/UR288HAZnrI/AAAAAAAAOQo/EFWsLJ5fbVM/s640/IMG_9185.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James is ready for food!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSymgaj0LtE/UR289oUGNqI/AAAAAAAAOQ0/PZ21MtKoctE/s1600/IMG_9187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSymgaj0LtE/UR289oUGNqI/AAAAAAAAOQ0/PZ21MtKoctE/s640/IMG_9187.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Take a picture of the bubbles, Mommy!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WIbi-3ucvRg/UR28-M2UjlI/AAAAAAAAOQ8/hOB6tuxfFdA/s1600/IMG_9190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WIbi-3ucvRg/UR28-M2UjlI/AAAAAAAAOQ8/hOB6tuxfFdA/s640/IMG_9190.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James checking out the pizza.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lm28zh2TKLc/UR28-kBzocI/AAAAAAAAORE/-2MemhtKx9U/s1600/IMG_9189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lm28zh2TKLc/UR28-kBzocI/AAAAAAAAORE/-2MemhtKx9U/s640/IMG_9189.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb dives in</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZZja1-NeII/UR28_gZAyKI/AAAAAAAAORM/d6MF4CsfaKU/s1600/IMG_9191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZZja1-NeII/UR28_gZAyKI/AAAAAAAAORM/d6MF4CsfaKU/s640/IMG_9191.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And so does James! This is huge for James to try pizza!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S3M3a17kkAc/UR28_3nx7mI/AAAAAAAAORQ/n3TDu5RW7oo/s1600/IMG_9192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S3M3a17kkAc/UR28_3nx7mI/AAAAAAAAORQ/n3TDu5RW7oo/s640/IMG_9192.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He only ate about four bites, but I was so proud of him!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bni9g14iwo0/UR29BxBlXfI/AAAAAAAAORc/fxpv2BnhUDs/s1600/IMG_9194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bni9g14iwo0/UR29BxBlXfI/AAAAAAAAORc/fxpv2BnhUDs/s640/IMG_9194.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb passes out his fan to one of his favorite friends, Lilah.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K4NRpg1bZs/UR29CLy7OhI/AAAAAAAAORg/M2DdU3EJqoc/s1600/IMG_9198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K4NRpg1bZs/UR29CLy7OhI/AAAAAAAAORg/M2DdU3EJqoc/s640/IMG_9198.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dropping it in Lucas's box.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ErdLSs0Zk8/UR29Dve4FxI/AAAAAAAAOR0/HkEjLCXm50Y/s1600/IMG_9202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ErdLSs0Zk8/UR29Dve4FxI/AAAAAAAAOR0/HkEjLCXm50Y/s640/IMG_9202.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We came home with quite a box of goodies! </td></tr>
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To top it off, Caleb enjoyed cupcakes and passing out the last of his Valentine's at Awana on Wednesday night. I don't think he even realized we'd been celebrating a day early, but he didn't care. I didn't either. It was a lot of fun.Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-81523059168070568202013-02-05T14:53:00.000-06:002013-02-05T14:53:22.830-06:00James Walks the DogJames is working with a new therapist at Hope Landing. Her name is Lucy. She wears a bandana to work every day, sleeps in the corner when she's not with a client, and she loves dog treats. She's a beautiful Lab mix, owned by another of James's therapists, Suzanne.<br />
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At their first official meeting, James was fairly nonplussed by Lucy. He had seen her at a campout before (and thoroughly broke her in by screaming his excitement in her face), and apparently books were more interesting on this particular day. Later, however, he got a chance to walk her down the hallway. Gena (his OT) held one hand, and he held Lucy's leash in the other. Usually, his one-handed walking is fairly wobbly, but I loved watching him walk with such confidence!<br />
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He's taking more independent steps each day. Last week, we recorded 9 steps in a row in Physical Therapy with Sam, and he repeated it several times! This week, we've been laid up with sickness, and James has been particularly pitiful about walking, but even then, he's been more daring about taking his own steps. It's fun to see!<br />
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Oh, see, you say? (Oh say, can you see?) Here's a little video of James walking the dog!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CvEJMl2hLb0" width="640"></iframe>Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-60805102666892223412013-02-01T17:08:00.001-06:002013-02-01T17:08:17.969-06:00Thanksgiving 2012My in-laws have lived in their home for several years, and yet we have somehow never had a family holiday there! We had to adjust a little--our party of four got to stay in a nearby house, but we really enjoyed being all together. It's always fun when the Norvell men get together, and we "add-ons"--the Norvell women--well, we have a lot of fun, too!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tgx-VxScNXI/UQxA36in95I/AAAAAAAAOME/LGwfLHZGwmc/s1600/IMG_7229.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tgx-VxScNXI/UQxA36in95I/AAAAAAAAOME/LGwfLHZGwmc/s1600/IMG_7229.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James cheering for the iPad.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2hvA8EK9Bkw/UQxA3rBZKwI/AAAAAAAAOL8/xHATQCz-yOE/s1600/IMG_7230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2hvA8EK9Bkw/UQxA3rBZKwI/AAAAAAAAOL8/xHATQCz-yOE/s1600/IMG_7230.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing outside at a neighbor's house</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gnYkiCoslZo/UQxA30R58ZI/AAAAAAAAOMA/zvJ7PE139C8/s1600/IMG_7249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gnYkiCoslZo/UQxA30R58ZI/AAAAAAAAOMA/zvJ7PE139C8/s1600/IMG_7249.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The diner is open for business!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psr-BLhgNE4/UQxA6BE1zWI/AAAAAAAAOMU/16JwKOv5uvo/s1600/IMG_7278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psr-BLhgNE4/UQxA6BE1zWI/AAAAAAAAOMU/16JwKOv5uvo/s640/IMG_7278.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb pulls the whole mound of flowers, roots and all</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xdw8yOlk3Mk/UQxA694CSdI/AAAAAAAAOMc/AToGMj906jw/s1600/IMG_7392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xdw8yOlk3Mk/UQxA694CSdI/AAAAAAAAOMc/AToGMj906jw/s640/IMG_7392.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana helps Caleb make rainbow cupcakes for his birthday</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qP47teLNNbA/UQxA8d-UyqI/AAAAAAAAOMk/IaPhhb09UXU/s1600/IMG_7356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qP47teLNNbA/UQxA8d-UyqI/AAAAAAAAOMk/IaPhhb09UXU/s1600/IMG_7356.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana and Granddad with all the grandsons</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l4kyqE6e26Q/UQxA9t_SiZI/AAAAAAAAOMs/vJZPQ9ilGGs/s1600/IMG_7410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l4kyqE6e26Q/UQxA9t_SiZI/AAAAAAAAOMs/vJZPQ9ilGGs/s1600/IMG_7410.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James is an accessory guy.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFvnIFnt1gQ/UQxA98QSVDI/AAAAAAAAOM0/YX_hZQai_ZM/s1600/IMG_7432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFvnIFnt1gQ/UQxA98QSVDI/AAAAAAAAOM0/YX_hZQai_ZM/s640/IMG_7432.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cupcakes are baked! Now time for icing and sprinkles!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSTjbW2Mr5U/UQxA_qdYDFI/AAAAAAAAOM8/u7c6nIq0a0E/s1600/IMG_7443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSTjbW2Mr5U/UQxA_qdYDFI/AAAAAAAAOM8/u7c6nIq0a0E/s1600/IMG_7443.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Story time with Granddad</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dczY7FXJM5w/UQxBAINFfzI/AAAAAAAAONE/3azCqK4iJLI/s1600/IMG_7448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dczY7FXJM5w/UQxBAINFfzI/AAAAAAAAONE/3azCqK4iJLI/s1600/IMG_7448.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb being silly</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8YR2fqJ794Q/UQxBCO2eQRI/AAAAAAAAONM/lP8YxTCd47E/s1600/IMG_7478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8YR2fqJ794Q/UQxBCO2eQRI/AAAAAAAAONM/lP8YxTCd47E/s640/IMG_7478.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granddad loves his boys</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dxkU5aItk-g/UQxBCBp9pxI/AAAAAAAAONQ/5ewrnnsfS34/s1600/IMG_7469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dxkU5aItk-g/UQxBCBp9pxI/AAAAAAAAONQ/5ewrnnsfS34/s1600/IMG_7469.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...ALL of them!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uaMupRYdGgs/UQxBDYHvIDI/AAAAAAAAONc/hwKyeTfAvyk/s1600/IMG_7485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uaMupRYdGgs/UQxBDYHvIDI/AAAAAAAAONc/hwKyeTfAvyk/s640/IMG_7485.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana with Caleb and James</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2EhyH3d8u0/UQxBFTkNZKI/AAAAAAAAONk/DD6xtaq_3Io/s1600/IMG_7487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2EhyH3d8u0/UQxBFTkNZKI/AAAAAAAAONk/DD6xtaq_3Io/s1600/IMG_7487.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Throw Calvin in there and see if we can get the shot!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ussEBDYDvx8/UQxBGe4faKI/AAAAAAAAONs/6YNC3HkE01M/s1600/IMG_7490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ussEBDYDvx8/UQxBGe4faKI/AAAAAAAAONs/6YNC3HkE01M/s640/IMG_7490.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Father-son time</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PFB1iAkODQw/UQxBGpuKBII/AAAAAAAAONw/qeNPePTaCGM/s1600/IMG_7505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PFB1iAkODQw/UQxBGpuKBII/AAAAAAAAONw/qeNPePTaCGM/s1600/IMG_7505.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's party-time!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PuQUa2rKrQs/UQxBH_bGz1I/AAAAAAAAON8/wkv3N9Eh7HE/s1600/IMG_7523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PuQUa2rKrQs/UQxBH_bGz1I/AAAAAAAAON8/wkv3N9Eh7HE/s1600/IMG_7523.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb opens his super hero cape!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FP0C-Jw3HD8/UQxBJR7ZnCI/AAAAAAAAOOE/kjPBbeYLE5g/s1600/IMG_7526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FP0C-Jw3HD8/UQxBJR7ZnCI/AAAAAAAAOOE/kjPBbeYLE5g/s1600/IMG_7526.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And a bow and arrow set...just what he wanted</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wowz4-l4CAc/UQxBLSJtQkI/AAAAAAAAOOM/7_-lkPnUM4Y/s1600/IMG_7531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wowz4-l4CAc/UQxBLSJtQkI/AAAAAAAAOOM/7_-lkPnUM4Y/s640/IMG_7531.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ooh, a nerf gun from Uncle Dave and fam</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--sdl_FjOgN0/UQxBLd5NDGI/AAAAAAAAOOQ/Xzz4P_4CmwE/s1600/IMG_7535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--sdl_FjOgN0/UQxBLd5NDGI/AAAAAAAAOOQ/Xzz4P_4CmwE/s1600/IMG_7535.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Dave (our police officer) explains gun safety</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KOkcNtIQbu0/UQxBLnleOfI/AAAAAAAAOOc/8EbpVrxL6SU/s1600/IMG_7538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KOkcNtIQbu0/UQxBLnleOfI/AAAAAAAAOOc/8EbpVrxL6SU/s640/IMG_7538.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The masked avenger!</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8evBELKVQ8/UQxBNPGyTmI/AAAAAAAAOOk/W4TBakM5FrQ/s1600/IMG_7540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8evBELKVQ8/UQxBNPGyTmI/AAAAAAAAOOk/W4TBakM5FrQ/s1600/IMG_7540.jpg" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9lNF6GCL3qg/UQxBOrzRwTI/AAAAAAAAOOs/QWwB5LnWBgw/s1600/MerryChristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9lNF6GCL3qg/UQxBOrzRwTI/AAAAAAAAOOs/QWwB5LnWBgw/s640/MerryChristmas.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our family photo</td></tr>
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<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-5302628211231424812013-01-30T20:54:00.000-06:002013-01-30T20:54:00.105-06:00Great Grandparent VisitMy grandparents live about 7 hours away (that's driving without kids), so getting to see them is rare. As a matter of fact, last November, it had been almost a year since we'd seen them last. We call often, and would get on Skype whenever possible, so the boys knew their great grandparents, but we were well overdue a visit. My mom offered to come along for the ride, which was a big help, since Jon wasn't able to come.<br />
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It was a sweet, sweet time, as it always is at either of my grandparents' houses. I have so so many memories from my childhood, and it makes my heart happy to know that my boys will have a few tucked in their pockets, too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCnd_SE5XeQ/UQiG0VWLi_I/AAAAAAAAOIQ/YNKzHPaDPZ8/s1600/IMG_6638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCnd_SE5XeQ/UQiG0VWLi_I/AAAAAAAAOIQ/YNKzHPaDPZ8/s640/IMG_6638.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Grandpa and James have lots of fun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-edRmfJCAlqk/UQiGx3Gh5lI/AAAAAAAAOII/KPJ0jYbKU4w/s1600/IMG_6634.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-edRmfJCAlqk/UQiGx3Gh5lI/AAAAAAAAOII/KPJ0jYbKU4w/s640/IMG_6634.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Already playing games!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqd2WMSqMtI/UQiG3ss5_hI/AAAAAAAAOIY/E6rcC5mkZWQ/s1600/IMG_6640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqd2WMSqMtI/UQiG3ss5_hI/AAAAAAAAOIY/E6rcC5mkZWQ/s640/IMG_6640.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James shows off his walking skills</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Do3Y5x9fiI/UQiHBfZO0tI/AAAAAAAAOIo/pxze89-5wu4/s1600/IMG_6646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Do3Y5x9fiI/UQiHBfZO0tI/AAAAAAAAOIo/pxze89-5wu4/s640/IMG_6646.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Grandma read lots of books to the boys.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iSZgEbUmUAg/UQiHLXPoiMI/AAAAAAAAOIw/wH4acsJIhqA/s1600/IMG_6668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iSZgEbUmUAg/UQiHLXPoiMI/AAAAAAAAOIw/wH4acsJIhqA/s640/IMG_6668.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Grandma made sure all the leaves were still there for the boys to play in, and they loved them!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_L-0zocuFOg/UQiHTHIKobI/AAAAAAAAOI4/aoiWyZjXcRI/s1600/IMG_6655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_L-0zocuFOg/UQiHTHIKobI/AAAAAAAAOI4/aoiWyZjXcRI/s640/IMG_6655.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb dancing around "the first tree of Christmas!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WgI6xTgdzhs/UQiHU6BQTcI/AAAAAAAAOJA/6A_uENC5FR4/s1600/IMG_6706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WgI6xTgdzhs/UQiHU6BQTcI/AAAAAAAAOJA/6A_uENC5FR4/s640/IMG_6706.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Aunt Mary was just what James needed to fall asleep.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G2E4b4GL9hY/UQiHYQf8xrI/AAAAAAAAOJI/hI53daelX3M/s1600/IMG_6705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G2E4b4GL9hY/UQiHYQf8xrI/AAAAAAAAOJI/hI53daelX3M/s640/IMG_6705.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb is very important as he waters Uncle George's garden.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5dUjrT5ks7Y/UQiHdQaobQI/AAAAAAAAOJQ/YTyciANOkEM/s1600/IMG_6711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5dUjrT5ks7Y/UQiHdQaobQI/AAAAAAAAOJQ/YTyciANOkEM/s640/IMG_6711.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb had looked through the Toys R Us ad, and decided that THIS is what he wanted for his birthday...and that's what he got!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yNgab9Fc9T4/UQiHkkeeoZI/AAAAAAAAOJY/bJOs8GnE08I/s1600/IMG_6728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yNgab9Fc9T4/UQiHkkeeoZI/AAAAAAAAOJY/bJOs8GnE08I/s640/IMG_6728.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb got to take an antique airplane out for a spin!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qBTN32R7b5s/UQiHlUI_59I/AAAAAAAAOJg/AJS1yv5TDjs/s1600/IMG_6735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qBTN32R7b5s/UQiHlUI_59I/AAAAAAAAOJg/AJS1yv5TDjs/s640/IMG_6735.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was Caleb's first real success at pedaling.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ATcwBWVhuI/UQiHl80hxDI/AAAAAAAAOJo/s_UTdkOhN1M/s1600/IMG_6737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ATcwBWVhuI/UQiHl80hxDI/AAAAAAAAOJo/s_UTdkOhN1M/s640/IMG_6737.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can tell how pleased he is with himself!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10pc36QH264/UQiHtHt42jI/AAAAAAAAOJ4/DgbJ5xavoSI/s1600/IMG_6744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10pc36QH264/UQiHtHt42jI/AAAAAAAAOJ4/DgbJ5xavoSI/s640/IMG_6744.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aviator Caleb!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98p3q7I0qLU/UQiHsiAEmMI/AAAAAAAAOJw/UqAS-qJIJfo/s1600/IMG_6749.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98p3q7I0qLU/UQiHsiAEmMI/AAAAAAAAOJw/UqAS-qJIJfo/s640/IMG_6749.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time for Little Man to take a turn!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4t_wGBE_4pY/UQiHvTDTegI/AAAAAAAAOKA/iNPnQwC8aT8/s1600/IMG_6759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4t_wGBE_4pY/UQiHvTDTegI/AAAAAAAAOKA/iNPnQwC8aT8/s640/IMG_6759.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle George starts the engine.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jSTRFrOaQfo/UQiHy_mHNPI/AAAAAAAAOKI/WZFTHUrS5aw/s1600/IMG_6762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jSTRFrOaQfo/UQiHy_mHNPI/AAAAAAAAOKI/WZFTHUrS5aw/s640/IMG_6762.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tScrEgwRnTA/UQiH9wnBfuI/AAAAAAAAOKQ/zZ6TFmhAcO4/s1600/IMG_6764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tScrEgwRnTA/UQiH9wnBfuI/AAAAAAAAOKQ/zZ6TFmhAcO4/s640/IMG_6764.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More reading time!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F3MwgekAEdU/UQiH9xLuYAI/AAAAAAAAOKU/8GbX2yMVXe8/s1600/IMG_6770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F3MwgekAEdU/UQiH9xLuYAI/AAAAAAAAOKU/8GbX2yMVXe8/s640/IMG_6770.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma gets a chance to play ball with James</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--bF0aiQFOEo/UQiH_ACEUzI/AAAAAAAAOKg/lNGyNjI6A0I/s1600/IMG_6774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--bF0aiQFOEo/UQiH_ACEUzI/AAAAAAAAOKg/lNGyNjI6A0I/s640/IMG_6774.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb picked a flower for Great Grandma</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M_P-kC-kN-k/UQiIELF-M6I/AAAAAAAAOKo/xuOwpHc7V94/s1600/IMG_6779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M_P-kC-kN-k/UQiIELF-M6I/AAAAAAAAOKo/xuOwpHc7V94/s640/IMG_6779.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Grandma takes James for a walk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eyZM5b0AvO0/UQiG-ynNQpI/AAAAAAAAOIg/tIvBfrJ7jDw/s1600/IMG_6649.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eyZM5b0AvO0/UQiG-ynNQpI/AAAAAAAAOIg/tIvBfrJ7jDw/s640/IMG_6649.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys enjoy Great Grandpa's piano!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aJnd0Ctve6w/UQiIGBkfGCI/AAAAAAAAOKw/ITuvFf4FUyU/s1600/IMG_6780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aJnd0Ctve6w/UQiIGBkfGCI/AAAAAAAAOKw/ITuvFf4FUyU/s640/IMG_6780.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Grandpa gets ready for his recital</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VC4H0ay0FN8/UQiIJlBYwlI/AAAAAAAAOK4/ch5w3AJLUiI/s1600/IMG_6789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VC4H0ay0FN8/UQiIJlBYwlI/AAAAAAAAOK4/ch5w3AJLUiI/s640/IMG_6789.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sweet, sweet moment that I am so glad I captured. These two love each other dearly!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KSjiF2EmBdA/UQiIO4CXdSI/AAAAAAAAOLA/iH9EMSx3xKM/s1600/IMG_6798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KSjiF2EmBdA/UQiIO4CXdSI/AAAAAAAAOLA/iH9EMSx3xKM/s640/IMG_6798.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And these two are pretty fast friends, as well!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nx1dP6Hl-uM/UQiIRWe8xDI/AAAAAAAAOLI/jbpTaYUfJGo/s1600/IMG_6800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nx1dP6Hl-uM/UQiIRWe8xDI/AAAAAAAAOLI/jbpTaYUfJGo/s640/IMG_6800.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've always loved my Grandma's hands.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FJrSZRRIRnw/UQiISf5mg8I/AAAAAAAAOLQ/Dz-pv5rLWEQ/s1600/IMG_6805_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FJrSZRRIRnw/UQiISf5mg8I/AAAAAAAAOLQ/Dz-pv5rLWEQ/s640/IMG_6805_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our family.</td></tr>
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<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34874045.post-60305306732574514562013-01-29T19:07:00.000-06:002013-01-29T19:07:00.381-06:00James ManI love this kid. He just cracks me up sometimes!<br />
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<br />Lydiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17733559271848774694noreply@blogger.com3